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Vermaelen lacking confidence, says Wenger

Arsene Wenger believes Thomas Vermaelen has found it difficult to cope with the pressures of being the Arsenal captain.

The 26-year-old has been criticised for a number of mistakes in recent weeks which have contributed to Arsenal’s unimpressive run of results.

Wenger revealed the Belgian often thinks about his performances all day after a match, but insists that despite his relatively poor recent displays, he is deserving of a starting place, captain or not.

“On Tuesday (away to Schalke in the Champions League) he was outstanding,” Wenger said.

“I think what has happened to him in recent weeks has affected his confidence.

“Physically he has no problem. You put more pressure on yourself when you are the captain. You want to be the best player in the team. You cannot be a defender and not make a mistake.

“But if you make one then maybe you put a bit more pressure on yourself, because you think, ‘I’m captain and I cannot afford that’.

“He is a guy who is completely involved in the game. He breathes his football from morning until night. He thinks about it and wants to do well.”

Vermaelen filled in at left-back against Schalke, with Andre Santos dropping to the bench, and is expected to return to the heart of Arsenal’s defence for their game against Fulham on Saturday.

Wenger added: “If he deserves to play, I play him. Captain or not, I think he deserves to play. He can help our stability at the back. That is important.”

Bacary Sagna reportedly turned down the opportunity to support Vermaelen and become the Arsenal vice-captain.

The 29-year-old Frenchman was approached by the club to be the vice-captain in the wake of Robin van Persie’s departure but rejected the opportunity.